Embankment traffic ban to be made permanent
NEW SIGNS AND BARRIERS WILL DETER PEOPLE FROM TRYING TO DRIVE THROUGH
VISITORS to Nottingham’s Victoria Embankment have praised plans to keep part of the area closed off to traffic, saying it will help to reduce air pollution and “keep the elderly safe”.
Consultation has begun on the permanent closure of the Embankment and Wilford Grove to through traffic, which removes 4,000 vehicle journeys a day through the park.
It follows a trial by Nottingham City Council that has been running since August last year.
Khalid Malimood, a 55-year-old shopkeeper from The Meadows, said: “I think it’s good they’ve blocked off the road. Many more people are walking, especially the elderly because they feel safer.
“Before it was hard for them to cross the road because traffic from Clifton came through so fast.”
Anna Davies, of West Bridgford, agreed: “I’m for pedestrianisation, even though I used to use the road to drive through.
“I’m sure I can find another way. It’s nice to take the dog off the lead and it would be great to further develop the area around the river.”
The 53-year-old HR director added that she would “like to see a cafe culture” there.
Ailsa Fairley, who is partially sighted, added that it was “brilliant” from an accessibility point of view.
Daniel Slepco, who works at East Midlands Airport, said he had experienced a few “near misses” with speeding cars before the measures.
The 35-year-old Meadows resident said: “I’ve noticed more families and kids walking and riding their bikes nearby. It’s safer for dog walkers too. I’ve also noticed that the air is cleaner as there’s less diesel fumes.”
Mr Slepco added: “My only concern is that I don’t want it to look a mess when it’s all done.”
Patricia Smith, 68, and husband Raymond Smith, 81, added: “The temporary measures look a bit ugly and it hasn’t been blocked off properly.
“But it’s good to see more people walking around.” Councillor Rosemary Healy, portfolio holder for transport at the city council, said: “Creating a traffic-free environment has improved access to the riverside, parks and gardens, but the temporary barriers have been in place for many months now, and we know there are issues with some motorists driving around them, and signs being scattered in strong winds.
“We’re planning to replace these with permanent signs and barriers more in keeping with the area, and better designed to deter people from trying to drive around the closures. “We’ve written directly to every household in The Meadows about the consultation, and I would encourage anyone who lives in or uses the area to respond.”
I’ve noticed more families and kids walking and riding their bikes. It’s safer for dog walkers too
Daniel Slepco